Australian Probe Reveals Billionaire Packer Paid $1.25 Million to Netanyahu's Lawyers

An Australian investigation published Monday reveals that billionaire James Packer transferred $1.25 million to the law offices of Amit Haddad, who represents Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in several cases, including "Case 1000," also known as the "Gifts Case." In this case, Netanyahu is accused of receiving benefits from public figures, including Packer.

According to the indictment, between 2011 and 2016, Netanyahu and his family allegedly received cigars, champagne, and jewelry worth approximately 700,000 shekels from Arnon Milchan and James Packer. In return, Netanyahu is accused of using his position to advance Milchan's interests, such as extending tax exemptions for returning residents and assisting with U.S. visa applications, creating a conflict of interest.

The Australian investigation indicates that the first monthly payment was transferred on September 23, 2024, from Packer's company, Consolidated Press International, via Citibank to the account of "Haddad, Rot, Schnar Attorneys" at Mizrahi Tefahot Bank in Israel. These payments reportedly continued monthly for two years.

An Australian source familiar with the payments stated that the transfers require urgent investigation to determine if Netanyahu received an undisclosed benefit from Packer. The source added that if the payments to the law firm directly or indirectly benefited Netanyahu, they could constitute a new violation of Israeli law regulating political support. Additionally, U.S. laws governing financial deals or benefits to foreign politicians from business entities might also apply.